Cold Weather Pest Risks

Fall is upon us! Apple cider, pumpkin patches, and other fall treats surely have everyone excited for the new season. Not only that, but now no one has to worry about gross pests anymore! Great, right?!

Just kidding.

Although the warm weather is gone, and with it mosquitoes and bees, you should still pest-proof your home against rodents and other pests. House mice can carry diseases like Hantavirus, and rats can come into your home and gnaw at your electrical wires and insulation. Ice dams, clogged gutters and normal wear and tear from the cold and wet winter months can create the holes and cracks in your home that these pests will take full advantage of.

As you can now see, pests are still a problem during the cold months, but lucky for you, we have have some tips provided by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) that will help you pest-proof your home in no time!

Protect Your Home Against a Winter Pest Invasion

• Look for missing roof shingles, ripped window screens and clogged gutters, all of which are entry points for pests.
• Seal cracks and holes including entry points for utilities and pipes.
• Replace weather-stripping and repair loose mortar around basement foundations and windows.
• Keep basements, attics and crawl spaces well ventilated and dry.
• Vacuum around doors and windows. Frequent vacuuming can catch invaders like spiders, silverfish, earwigs and beetles.
• Inspect garages and outbuildings for rodents or signs of a rodent infestation. Organize cluttered debris, boxes and random items along the walls where mice may hide or nest.
• Store firewood at least 20 feet away from the house and brush it off before bringing it indoors.